Gabriel Slonina chooses the United States over Poland
The Chicago Fire goalkeeper used his social media to confirm his commitment to the United States men’s national team and is awaiting his first call up.
At 18-years-old, Gabriel Slonina is one of the best goalkeepers in Major League Soccer this season and he has kept five clean sheets in 16 appearances. The Chicago Fire goalkeeper is eligible to play for Poland and the United States at international level and has finally made up his mind.
Slonina has pledged his international future to the United States men’s national team and declined the invitation from Poland to participate in the UEFA Nations League tournament next month. The Polish manager Czeslaw Michniewicz had met with Slonina in the Fire’s recent US Open Cup match last month and even gave him a jersey.
Slonina’s heart is American
Gabriel Slonina was born in the United States but his parents are from Poland. The Chicago Fire goalkeeper used his social media to confirm his decision regarding his international career. “I have always identified myself as a first-generation Polish-American who is very proud of my roots and heritage,” wrote Slonina in a statement.
“My parents, as many others, immigrated to the USA to look for better opportunities, and the chance to find success in a new country. This country [United States] has given me and my family all the opportunities I could ask for. It’s pushed me and supported me through good and bad. I understand the privilege of wearing the badge, and the only time I’ll put my head down to kiss it. America is home and that’s who I’m going to represent.”
Slonina was not included in the United States’ roster for the upcoming FIFA international break and he will await his opportunity to receive a call up. The Chicago Fire goalkeeper has been called into the USMNT camp twice in the past seven months but he has not make his debut in an official game.